Simon Harris, Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister, will commemorate Private Sean Rooney during his Lebanon visit. He aims to address concerns regarding the investigation’s lack of progress while meeting with Defence Forces personnel and enhancing funding for community projects.
Simon Harris, Ireland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, will honor the memory of Irish peacekeeper Private Sean Rooney during his upcoming trip to Lebanon. Private Rooney, 24, from County Donegal, was tragically killed while serving with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) on December 14, 2022.
During his visit, Mr. Harris aims to express the Irish government’s “frustration and concern” regarding the ongoing lack of progress in the investigation of Private Rooney’s death. He is scheduled for several political meetings where he will reiterate the need for “accountability and justice” for the Rooney family. Furthermore, the trial related to Private Rooney’s killing has faced delays, with the next hearing expected in Beirut this September.
The Deputy Prime Minister will also meet with the 339 Defence Forces personnel currently deployed with the 125th Infantry Battalion at Camp Shamrock in southern Lebanon. Mr. Harris intends to commend their commitment to promoting peace in the region. Additionally, he is likely to announce enhanced funding for local community projects during his visit.
In summary, Simon Harris’s visit to Lebanon will honor Private Sean Rooney’s memory and address the ongoing challenges faced by the Irish government regarding justice for his family. His discussions with Defence Forces personnel will commend their service and aim to bolster support for community initiatives. This visit underscores Ireland’s commitment to peacekeeping and accountability within the international community.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
